We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jennifer Salvetti-kulla. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jennifer below.

Jennifer, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?

I launched JSK Fine Art Appraisals in 2020, during a pivotal moment in my life and career. At the time, I was managing the gallery at Art & Frames, which gave me incredible insight into the art world and firsthand experience working with collectors. I had been with the gallery for a few years, and while I loved the work, I started noticing a gap in the market for professional fine art appraisal services in San Diego. I knew I had the expertise and passion to fill that gap, and starting my own business felt like the natural next step.

Looking back, I think the timing was perfect for me. If I had started sooner, I wouldn’t have had the same level of confidence or the depth of experience that came from working in the gallery and completing my formal appraisal training. Those years gave me the foundation I needed to establish my credibility and understand what clients really value in an appraiser. Starting later might have given me more time to refine my systems or build a broader network, but I also think I would have missed out on the lessons and growth that come from diving in and figuring things out as you go.

Launching during 2020 also brought its own unique challenges. The pandemic was reshaping how people interacted with their art collections—whether for estate planning, insurance, or even sales—and there was an increased demand for appraisal services. It was a learning curve, but it taught me to adapt quickly and serve clients in creative ways, like offering virtual consultations or working closely with other professionals to meet their needs.

In hindsight, I wouldn’t change a thing. Starting when I did allowed me to combine my education, gallery experience, and professional training into a business I’m proud of. It wasn’t rushed, but it also wasn’t delayed. The timing felt right for where I was in my life, and it gave me the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.

Jennifer, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m the founder of JSK Fine Art Appraisals, where I specialize in helping individuals and professionals uncover the unique stories and value behind their art collections. My path into this field started with a love of museums and beautiful objects, which I’ve nurtured throughout my academic and professional life. I’ve been fortunate to work with a wide range of clients, from attorneys and estate planners to private collectors and institutions, each with unique needs and goals for their artwork.

At JSK Fine Art Appraisals, I provide a variety of services, including appraisals for insurance, estate planning, donations, and resale, as well as advisory services for charitable donations and sales. Each project is an opportunity to combine rigorous research with a personalized approach that meets the client’s specific needs. My reports are designed to be comprehensive and user-friendly, offering clarity for both clients and third parties like insurers or legal professionals.

What makes my work fulfilling is the trust and relationships I build with my clients. Whether it’s helping a collector understand the market potential of their latest acquisition or providing a family with the necessary documentation to protect a cherished piece, I take pride in being a trusted resource. I also bring a strong network of experts to the table, ensuring clients have access to the best possible advice and services, even beyond appraisals.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my ability to connect with clients on a personal level. Art often carries emotional and historical significance, and I strive to honor those aspects while delivering practical, professional results. I want potential clients to know that working with JSK Fine Art Appraisals means partnering with someone who genuinely cares about their goals and values their trust.

Ultimately, my mission is to ensure that every client feels empowered in their decisions regarding their art. Whether it’s through a formal appraisal, guidance on a charitable donation, or advice for selling a collection, I’m here to provide expertise and support every step of the way.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

The best source of new clients for me has been referrals from professionals in related fields, such as attorneys, estate planners, and insurance adjusters. These professionals often encounter clients who need reliable and thorough appraisals for estate planning, insurance coverage, or charitable donations, and they trust me to handle these situations with care and expertise. Building strong relationships with these professionals has been invaluable for growing my business.

Another significant source has been referrals from other appraisers who specialize in areas outside my expertise, such as decorative arts or antiques. These collaborations allow us to support one another while ensuring clients receive the most qualified appraisal services for their specific needs. I value the opportunity to connect with other appraisers and provide a seamless experience for shared clients.

Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients have also been a major source of new business. When someone has a positive experience, they’re more likely to recommend my services to their friends, family, or colleagues. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my work has left such a positive impression that clients feel confident sharing my name with others.

I’ve also had success connecting with new clients through my involvement in professional organizations like the San Diego Chamber of Commerce and the International Society of Appraisers. These memberships provide opportunities to network with other professionals and establish my credibility within the art and business communities.

Lastly, my website and online presence have played a role in attracting new clients. By offering clear information about my services and making it easy for potential clients to schedule consultations, I’ve been able to connect with people who might not have found me otherwise.

Ultimately, the combination of professional and peer referrals, personal connections, and an approachable online presence has been key to reaching new clients and building lasting relationships.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Absolutely. One of the most impactful resources for me has been the book She Minds Her Own Business by Krystel Stacey. It’s an incredible guide for designing your business and life with intention, and it resonated deeply with me as I was growing JSK Fine Art Appraisals. The book emphasizes the importance of creating systems, setting boundaries, and aligning your work with your values, all of which have helped me structure my business in a way that feels both efficient and fulfilling.

I also found the International Society of Appraisers’ education materials to be invaluable, particularly during my training. The ISA Fine Art Manual and the Core Course in Appraisal Studies are more than technical guides; they also shape how I approach challenges and decision-making in my business. These resources instilled in me the importance of thorough research, clear communication, and maintaining ethical standards—principles that guide my work every day.

Attending the International Society of Appraisers’ annual conference in Montreal was another transformative experience. I had the opportunity to meet other appraisers from across the country and exchange ideas about best practices, trends, and challenges in the field. It was inspiring to connect with peers and learn from their experiences, which enriched my understanding of the industry and broadened my professional network.

Another experience that influenced my thinking was attending the ARCA Art Crime Conference in Italy. Learning about the complexities of art crime and provenance research broadened my perspective on the art world and deepened my appreciation for the importance of accuracy and transparency in appraisals. It also reinforced the idea that continual learning is essential to staying relevant and providing the best possible service to clients.

Finally, I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors in the appraisal field. Their guidance and encouragement have helped me navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and provided me with a strong foundation to grow my business.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jskfineartappraisals.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-salvetti-kulla-ma-isa-am-08034a11a/

Image Credits

Photographer: Anita Friedrich @ani_portrait